"The Starter" recaps the week gone by in golf. PGA Professional Brendon Elliott, a three-decade industry veteran, provides his insights for RG. In this installment, Elliott dives into Scottie Scheffler's dominance this week and throughout 2024.
If it wasn't apparent prior to 2024, it is very evident now that the year is done; Scottie Scheffler is as good of a golfer as has come along since Tiger in his prime. It is hard for me to put any other description on Scheffler's play this week at the Hero other than this: he dominated. In a field loaded with talent, Scheffler showcased a level of play that has me and countless golf junkies buzzing with excitement — this kid is redefining what it means to be a force in golf, and he's proving to the World that he clearly is that next generational player.
While names like Justin Thomas, Tom Kim, and Keegan Bradley brought it this week, it was clear from the onset that this tournament was Scheffler's to lose. With rounds of 67, 64, 69, and a closing 63, Scottie delivered a staggering four-day total of 25-under-par, finishing six shots clear of the competition. Not as sharp in his Saturday round of 3-under par 69, Scottie came into Sunday actually one back of Justin Thomas, who has been showing signs of regaining his form. As we have seen so often the past couple of years, if Scheffler is even within a sniff of the lead going into a Sunday, he is like a shark smelling blood. Yesterday's final round of 9-under par 63 was one in which Scottie made birdies look effortless, and every swing exuded confidence. This was not just a win; it was a statement.
The Best Just Keeps Getting Better
As the week started, the buzz was around Scheffler's new adaptation of the "Claw" putting grip, as I wrote about on Saturday on PGA.com. Scottie has never been a lousy putter by any stretch of the imagination; however, at times, that has been seen as his only Achilles heel. Statistically, Scheffler has dominated ball-striking stats, and his ability to scramble has always been solid as well. It's only been his occasional bouts with a bulky putter that have held him back, and it's scary to say, but from being even more dominant than he has. This week may have shown signs of what could be on the horizon in 2025, with his superior ball striking matching up with a confident putter, all thanks to a bit of experimentation with his putting grip. Chew on these key stats from this past week:
- Greens in Regulation: 80.56% Ranked 1st
- Driving Accuracy: 80.77% Ranked T3
- SG: Approach to Green: Ranked 1st
- SG: Off The Tee: Ranked 3rd
- Putts per GIR: 1.60 Ranked 5th
- SG: Putting: Ranked 3rd
Backing It Up All Year Long
What stands out most to me with Scottie is how this victory is the cherry on top of a phenomenal year. He's not merely riding a wave; he's carved out a legacy of consistency that every golfer aspires to. 16 top-10 finishes in 19 starts, 7 PGA TOUR Wins, including his second Masters and the Players Championship, and two unofficial TOUR wins, including the Olympics, and this past week's Hero, his unmistakable ability to perform under pressure has made it clear: he's one of, if not the favorite every time he tees it up. After years of speculation about who might fill the void left by Tiger Woods, Scheffler is emerging as that golfer. His performance this year has solidified his position among the elite, and it's thrilling to witness.
The New Era of Greatness
Many seasoned fans might have thought we would never witness another player with the same kind of impact as Tiger Woods. Yet here we are, on the brink of what could be a new era led by Scottie Scheffler. The way he commands the course, combining exceptional skill with a mental fortitude rarely seen in players his age, is remarkable. There's an undeniable aura around him—one that draws comparisons to the greats. Every time he steps onto the course, he plays with the attitude of a champion, and honestly, it's hard not to feel the energy shift in his presence.
Anticipating What's Next
Looking ahead to 2025, I can confidently say that Scottie Scheffler is set for continued success at an even more incredible level than he was this year. I predict 10 wins as we turn the page into the upcoming season. Scottie doesn't just want to be some flash in the pan; he's aiming for a career that inspires future generations of golfers. It's this commitment to excellence that excites me the most. He's solidified himself as the World's number-one ranked player, and I have no doubt he plans to stay there. With his unmatched dedication, desire to keep improving, and wholesome, grounded persona, the sky is truly the limit for him.
Witnessing Greatness in Real Time
To wrap it up, the Hero World Challenge wasn't just another tournament; it was a stage for Scottie Scheffler to showcase his dominance. This win solidified his status as one of the premier golfers in the World today and as a generational talent. Watching him command the course was nothing short of inspiring. As someone deeply passionate about golf, I am captivated by Scheffler's journey. The excitement builds with each tournament as we collectively wonder: how far can this prodigious talent go? I believe we are witnessing something extraordinary, and I can't wait to see how this story continues to unfold.
Brendon Elliott, a distinguished PGA Professional, is best known for his dedication to the growth and development of junior golf. With nearly three decades of experience, Elliott has been recognized multiple times as one of the best instructors, both regionally and nationally.
Elliott's crowning achievement was being named the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award Winner, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. He is the founder of Little Linksters, an award-winning youth golf academy and nonprofit that works with kids of all abilities to help them develop a passion for golf. His innovative teaching methods and love for the game have made significant impacts on students and the broader golfing community.
Additionally, Brendon, a Golf Writers Association of America member, has become a renowned freelance golf writer, further solidifying his position as a top professional in the industry.
